Your kitchen pantry is the heart of your home. It’s where you store all of your ingredients, cooking supplies, and other kitchen essentials. As such, you want to make sure that it is organized and efficient. Otherwise, imagine the chaos of having to constantly search for what you need!
Here are some great tips to make sure that your kitchen pantry is as functional and organized as possible.
Label Everything
Labeling your pantry items is essential for quick and easy identification. It will also help you keep track of expiration dates so that you don’t end up with a pile of expired food in the back of your pantry.
Then,
• Use a waterproof label maker or permanent marker for writing labels.
• Make sure to clearly label the contents you are storing in each container.
• Be sure to print out a list of common food allergens and post it near your pantry to make sure you are aware of any possible allergens in your food items.
Maximize Space
Especially if you have a small kitchen, it is important to maximize the space in your pantry so that everything is organized and easily accessible. Utilize stackable containers or shelving units to store food items like rice, pastas, and canned goods. Place heavier items on the bottom shelves and lighter items on higher shelves for easier access.
Primarily,
• Measure the area and decide what items you will store in each shelf or stackable container.
• Utilize clear containers so that you can easily see what type of food is stored inside.
• Place items of similar sizes together on shelves to make it easier to find them when you need them.
• Use vertical storage for narrow items such as spices, oils, and condiments.
Hang a Pegboard
It’s not strictly food items that need to be organized in your pantry. Utensils, cutting boards, and other kitchen essentials can take up a lot of room if not stored correctly. Installing a pegboard on the wall is a great way to store all of these items without taking up valuable shelf space. Not only will it keep things neat and tidy, but it will also make it easier to find the items you need.
For a big pantry job, it’s best to hire a contractor who has the right tools for a thorough job (hooks, different types of pallets, hammer drill).
Otherwise,
• Measure the wall space and decide how many hooks you want to hang on the board.
• Use heavier-duty screws and anchors to ensure that the board is securely mounted on the wall.
• Place heavier items on the lower hooks and lighter items on the upper hooks.
Organizing your kitchen pantry can be a daunting task, but it will make life easier in the long run. By labeling items, maximizing space, and rotating food items regularly, you will have an efficient and organized kitchen pantry that you can enjoy for years to come. With these tips in mind, you’ll never have to worry about rummaging through your pantry for that elusive ingredient or pot again.